If it is a bright, sunny day, it is better for photography to take the ferry over to Gravesend where there are several good vantage points, including the ferry pier where you will arrive from Tilbury. Inbound ships pass very close to Tilbury landing stage but for most of the day you will be shooting into the light

Unfortunately the train no longer goes to the riverside station (Cruise Terminal & ferry), the nearest is Tilbury Town which is probably a good mile from the river although you may be able to get a taxi to the ferry stage, might be more difficult getting back. I believe the rail station in Gravesend is a lot closer to the river.

There is a shuttle bus between Tilbury Town railway station and the landing stage but, as you say, it would be better to go to Gravesend. There is a high-speed train service (140 mph) to Gravesend from London St Pancras. It takes just 20 minutes.

Gravesend is a much better option for public transport and also amenities such as pubs/cafes etc. Can recommend The Three Daws by the river/ferry, if it's nice you can sit out and see whatever is coming up river in plenty of time. You can always pop across to Tilbury Stage on the ferry if you are lucky with timings as anything inbound will be on the Essex side. Suggest you just have a wander around to find best spots for you, there are a number of higher vantage points to the West (upriver) of the pier or you can go downriver to the prom where there is plenty of seating and the natives are friendly!

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